Jiamond Mines led the Bobcats in scoring with 16 points, while Narcissie Howard scored 14 points and grabbed four steals.

R.C. Hatch head coach Willie Morgan said his team's defensive effort was the difference in advancing or going home.

"We've been stressing defense all year long," Morgan said. "That's what gets us going. Tonight we were able to make some stops and get some easy scoring. Other than that, my girls just played hard. They wanted it."

R.C. Hatch improved to 17-7 with the win, while Montgomery Academy's season ended with a 17-12 mark.

The Eagles never quit, keeping the margin close through the end of the game. Montgomery Academy was led by Jade Brooks, who scored 22 points, but committed nine turnovers. Lillian Roth and Lee Ellen Bryan had six points and six rebounds apiece.

As soon the game was over, Morgan had already turned his attention to his next task -- figuring out how to give No. 2 Prattville Christian its first loss of the year.

"We have to contain Ms. Emerson," Morgan said. "Hopefully we'll get a win. If our girls come out and play hard, and the Lord's on our side, anything's possible. Right now, at this time of the year, anything's possible."